Starting from Small and Looking to God for People to Work with You
I am reminded by reading Guy Vallee’s Quantum L.E.A.P book that anyone can be working with youth. My daughter has had teachers ranging who were fresh out of college to close to retirement teaching her for the last 10+ years, and the 4-5 hours a week had just a great impact on her. Age does not matter, it is about what someone brings to impart to others and their investment whether it be education or in the church world, ministry. Guy’s book reminds me, that they are diamonds in the rough that need time to develop, mined, and taught that have so much to offer young people with their life experience.
I must confess, I love “programs” when it comes to events and group gatherings but it is the soft skills of listening, interacting, and giving attention to hospitality and acceptance that leaves a great impact on people long term. Young people may remember a sketch but will forever have a memory embedded in their minds and hearts because of a conversation where they were heard, prayed for and listened to. Time and being present to youth matters more than the latest trending fad or youth activity everyone is doing.
I use to think young people can only reach young people running camps and such. It was a sub-culture that was not like the Church and consequently, the connection was lost as there was no intergenerational influence or models for young believers in these settings. Youth came to faith but never stayed or were part of any church after short months or their years in high school. I have seen some great models similar to what Guy shares about where there are what I call “lifer youth leaders” of all ages and backgrounds modelling volunteerism and giving their time to young people that are still doing it after 5, 10, 20 years. They are integrated with the youth ministry and Church and church is not just limited to Sundays. These leaders young and old coach sports, teach dancing, drive vans, and bake goods for events while being spiritual and life mentors to teens.
Guy’s book is a great reminder and encouragement for any small church setting but also for bigger settings on what matters most. You have to pick it up as there are so many gems of truth in it.